(Singapore) Novena Church, the shrine to Our Mother of Perpetual Help in Singapore, is known for its Annual Procession. Thousands gather in and around the church on the first Sunday of September as the icon is carried around the Church. In the last 20 years or so, another event has grown around the procession. On the Monday after the procession, the Novena Youth Rally is held, attracting many young people from around the country for a night of contemporary music, alternative proclamations of the Gospel through the arts and mission-style preaching geared towards youth. It has been a tremendous success. This year due to the pandemic, a virtual rally was held on 18th June 2021.
A number of technical innovations were employed. Viewers had a choice to follow one of three channels: a forum discussion that included laity and religious on matters of faith, a music festival featuring bands from around the country, and a segment on making rosaries and drawing.
The theme of the Youth Rally was “Level-Up.” God meets us where we are, but we are always invited to grow in faith and in our relationship with God.
The organising committee, again comprising Redemptorists and laity, worked for more than a year on this project. Plans had to be changed constantly as lockdowns and distancing regulations were imposed or relaxed.
You can watch the rally at this link. https://www.novenayouthrally.com/halo-toons-/jesus-is-typing77aca570
Gerard Louis, CSsR
Vice-Provice of Malaysia & Singapore
